Larry Hallegua

Series Finalist · Open Call 2022

Larry Hallegua

Pattaya Beach Resort in Thailand, widely recognized for its bustling nighttime sex industry, transforms into a vibrant and lively haven for tourists during the day. A significant number of Russian and Chinese visitors are drawn to its sandy shores, where they can unwind, revel in leisurely activities, and, most importantly, be their true selves. Shot between 2015 and 2019, “Beach Matters” presents a vivid portrayal of daily scenes and diverse characters, capturing intimate relationships, leisurely pursuits, and the universal allure of sun-worshipping.

To maintain consistency in backdrops and location, the photographer, Larry Hallegua, chose to focus on two of the busiest beaches in the Pattaya area. His primary interest lies in exploring and uncovering the beauty of people immersed in moments of solitude or engaging with others, while also documenting the clothing, habits, rituals, and traditions associated with various cultures. Hallegua’s keen eye for detail captures the essence of individuals as they interact with one another and their environment, creating a visually rich tapestry of human experiences. Through “Beach Matters”, Hallegua hopes to reveal those rare public spaces where general absurdities and unique cultural quirks seamlessly blend together, resulting in a captivating collection of images that celebrates the colorful tapestry of life along the shores of Pattaya Beach Resort.

This is the tenth issue of Eyeshot Magazine always in limited edition of 500 copies, showcasing the thoughtful and creative photographs of the 70 talented photographers who have been selected as the winners, jurors’ picks and finalists of the Eyeshot Open Call 2022. The artworks were chosen from over 6000 photographssubmitted from more than 100 different countries, making this a truly global showcase of street and documentary photography.